The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has announced a FY16 Emergency Disaster Grant in the amount of $2,957,100 to the Hope Housing Authority.

According to HUD, "the HACH has been increasingly experiencing repetitive maintenance issues that are a direct result of the aging sewer line materials and excessive soil movements due to the large amount of storm water runoff that is not being adequately directed away from the dwelling units. With most units having been constructed in 1966, the useful life of the ductile iron and vitrified clay pipe has reached its useful lifespan. Due to the risk for disease associated with the exposure of raw sewage, mold due to excessive moisture within the building envelope, and infection of viruses spread by mosquitos, the HACH is in an emergency situation. As a result, HUD is classifying the building waste water collection system and sewer repairs and related work as emergency work because of the limited capital funding that is currently available to HACD which results in an unpreventable emergency endangering the lives and safety of the residents."

“This funding allows for critical repairs to improve living conditions for Hope citizens,” U.S. Sen. John Boozman said. “I am pleased to support this investment that enables the Hope Housing Authority to continue providing safe and affordable housing.”

“It’s alarming that our fellow Arkansas are living in such deplorable conditions,” U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton said. “I applaud HUD for awarding this grant, which will allow so many families to finally live in decent homes.”

“I am pleased HUD has awarded nearly $3 million to the Hope Housing Authority,” Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) said. “This is an opportunity to invest in infrastructure which will solve longstanding drainage problems and improve quality of life for citizens of the Fourth Congressional District.”

According to HUD, Public Housing Emergencies – Capital Fund related physical work items resulting from an unpreventable or unforeseen emergency that pose an immediate threat to life, health, or safety of residents, or property (including fire safety), and that must be corrected within one year of funding. Emergencies are funded through a special set aside of the Capital Fund which for FY16 is $16.5 million.